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Orlando Woman Charged With DUI With Serious Bodily Injury After Crash Critically Injuring 2 Young Children In Frostproof Crash

Staff Reporter
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32-year-old Ashauntie Cox (DOB 2/15/1991) of Orlando, who caused serious bodily harm to two children in her vehicle while fleeing from two crashes and driving under the influence, was arrested in Polk County on Friday, May 19, 2023, and charged with several felonies.

According to witnesses and information developed during the investigation, the first crash occurred around 8:00 p.m. on US Hwy 27 at the intersection with US Hwy 98 near Frostproof. Cox was driving a blue Kia southbound on Hwy 27 when she struck a grey Chevy Silverado pickup truck and then fled at a high rate of speed. As she continued to recklessly speed south down Hwy 27, weaving in and out of slower moving traffic, she rear-ended a 2016 Honda CRV while trying to pass between that SUV and the vehicle next to it which were both also going southbound. The victim driving the CRV was taken to Sebring Hospital, where he was treated and released with minor injuries.

The collision caused Cox’s vehicle to flip several times, ejecting two Orlando children, ages 5 and 8 years old. Both sustained significant injuries, and they were taken to Tampa General Hospital where they are both in critical condition. A 27-year-old female passenger was also seriously injured along her spinal cord, hip, and back. She remains at Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center in stable condition.

When deputies arrived at the scene of the crash, they detected the odor of marijuana and located a bottle of tequila in Cox’s vehicle. Cox was transported to the hospital and interview by deputies. Cox told deputies they were driving from Orlando to Avon Park to celebrate the 5-year-old’s kindergarten graduation. She admitted to smoking marijuana earlier in the day, and to having four shots of tequila. Her blood was drawn for further analysis, and she displayed several signs of impairment. 

She was booked into the Polk County Jail and is being charged with:

·        Three counts DUI with serious bodily injury (F3)

·        Two counts negligent child abuse with great bodily harm (F2)

·        Reckless driving (F3)

·        One count DUI with property damage (M1)

·        One count DUI (M2)

Further charges are pending the outcome of the investigation. 

“This woman had no regard for anyone’s life when she got behind the wheel intoxicated and then drove recklessly down a major highway, but what’s worse is the blatant disregard she had for the lives of the innocent children in her car. I expect a successful prosecution to hold her accountable—and let’s hope she loses her driving privileges if she’s released from jail or prison. Please keep these babies and their families in your prayers.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

After Contentious Negotiations and a Brief “Impasse,” Lake Wales City Officials and West Central PBA Reach a New 2-Year Agreement for LWPD Officers

Maria Iannucci
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After Contentious Negotiations and a Brief “Impasse,” Lake Wales City Officials and West Central PBA Reach a New 2-Year Agreement for LWPD Officers
Lake Wales Police Department

After lengthy discussion and concern over fair compensation for officers at the Lake Wales Police Department, an agreement has been achieved between the agency and its union representatives.

Recently, the West Central Florida Police Benevolent Association, the local chapter of the Florida PBA that represents a multitude of local law enforcement agencies, shared its reaction to the approval of City of Lake Wales’ annual budget. The budget was approved on Sept. 3, 2025.

In a previous article, published on Sept. 6, 2025, Lake Wales Daily published a summary of the budget approval and detailed some of the categories targeted for funding. The budget appears to maintain a focus on further implementing the Lake Wales Connected plan. A link to that article is available here:

City of Lake Wales Approves $123 Million Budget, Focuses on Projects to Further Implement Lake Wales Connected Plan

An excerpt from the Sept. 6 article reads, “At their regular meeting on Wed., Sept. 3, 2025, Lake Wales city commissioners voted unanimously to approve the budget and millage rate for the next fiscal year.

“The budget has an estimated total of $123,558,276, with a general fund estimated at $37,890,370 and operating expenditures that are ‘14.6% more than last year’s total operating expenditures.’”

This article garnered the attention of the president of the West Central Florida PBA, Nick Marolda, who represents law enforcement personnel at LWPD and other agencies. Marolda’s focus as a top representative of the union is to engage in collective bargaining for wages and working conditions, as well as legal defense and advocacy for the members and families they serve.

Marolda, himself a retired Lakeland police officer, says the impasse was declared by the West Central Florida PBA on Sept. 4, according to an email received by Lake Wales Daily. The article under discussion involves wages for officers, an item noticed to the City in May 2025, according to Marolda.

While the current 3-year collective bargaining agreement between the City and the union runs through September 30, 2026, certain articles are permitted to be negotiated during this timeframe.

An email sent Sept. 9 by Marolda to Lake Wales Daily included a copy of an open letter published by Florida PBA this week, detailing his disappointment that the newly-passed budget did not include items with regard to public safety, specifically pay-increase potential for officers.

The email arrived with an explanation of why the statement was provided: “I am trying to garner support for our brave men and women at the Lake Wales Police Department.”

Union leadership raised concerns that officers at the Lake Wales Police Department face challenges with competitive compensation compared to other agencies in the region.

While Marolda credited the City for its plan for “resurfaced city streets, restored alleyways, and refurbished city parks,” which he called, “wonderful line items,” his letter also put forth concerns over the lack of dollars tagged for law enforcement, given the other improvements detailed in this year’s budget.

“The officers who patrol the streets of the city is spending big money onto resurface, and the officers that patrol the alleyways at 3 AM that the city is looking to restore, and the officers to patrol the neighborhoods, playgrounds and pavilions each day, so that law abiding citizens can feel safe while walking the trails and playing with their children,” Marolda said.

Following those remarks and public discussion, the West Central Florida PBA issued a formal update confirming that a deal was ultimately reached with the City of Lake Wales.

In a statement released by PBA President Nick Marolda, the union announced that the sworn men and women of the Lake Wales Police Department ratified a new collective bargaining agreement through September 30, 2027. The contract provides:
• A 10.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) within the next 12 months
• Memberships at the Lake Wales Recreation Center for all bargaining unit members
• Expanded retirement benefits, including DROP participation up to 96 months, with new access for members already enrolled

Marolda noted that recent public awareness of the negotiations helped bring attention to the issue and encouraged both sides to reach an agreement. The West Central PBA also expressed appreciation for the community’s recognition of the importance of supporting law enforcement officers.

The statement concluded by emphasizing the sacrifices officers make daily to protect the city and reaffirming the PBA’s mission to ensure every officer returns home safely from duty.

In Loving Memory of Kathleen McGhee, 89, of Frostproof

Maria Iannucci
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In Loving Memory of Kathleen McGhee, 89, of Frostproof

Kathleen McGhee, 89

Kathleen McGhee, a beloved member of her family and community, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025, at AdventHealth Sebring, leaving behind a legacy of love and resilience. Born on May 2, 1936, in Brundidge, Alabama, Kathleen’s journey through life was marked by a deep commitment to her family and her unwavering faith in the Pentecostal tradition.

Kathleen dedicated a significant part of her life to her career as a grader for Citrus World, where she made lasting connections and contributed wholeheartedly to her work. Her kindness and positive spirit touched the lives of those around her, making her not just a colleague, but a friend to many.

She is cherished by her daughters, Jennifer Watts and her husband Timmy of Frostproof, and Anita Tuel and her husband Todd of Ladson, South Carolina. Kathleen’s family grew with 17 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren, who will forever carry her memory in their hearts. Her influence and teachings will continue to guide them through their lives, as she instilled in them the values of love, integrity, and faith.

Kathleen’s life was also marked by the heartache of losing loved ones. She is reunited in spirit with her beloved husband, Leo McGhee, who preceded her in death, as well as her children, Jimmy Ray McGhee, Candy McGhee, Myrtle Jefferies, and Timothy McGhee. Her grandson Chris Jefferies, along with her siblings Merle, Joe, Pearl and Leroy, and her devoted parents James and Kate Maulden, also welcomed her with open arms on the other side.

A graveside service to honor Kathleen’s life will be held on September 23, 2025, at Silver Hill Cemetery in Frostproof, Florida, starting at 10:30 AM. This gathering will be a time for family and friends to celebrate her remarkable life. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.

In Loving Memory of Robert Henry Perkins, 89, of Lake Wales

Maria Iannucci
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In Loving Memory of Robert Henry Perkins, 89, of Lake Wales

Robert Henry Perkins, 89

Robert Henry Perkins, a devoted family man and patriotic veteran, passed away on September 14, 2025, at Winter Haven Hospital. Born on April 22, 1936, in Warsaw, New York, Robert led a life marked by service and dedication.

A proud military veteran, Robert served in the United States Army for two years before retiring from the United States Air Force after an impactful twenty-year career. His military service shaped his character and instilled in him a sense of pride that he carried throughout his life.

Robert earned an Associate Degree and worked diligently as a Radio-Telephone Supervisor for the United States Government. He was known not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his passionate spirit and unwavering patriotism. His love of country was mirrored in the way he embraced the outdoors, finding joy in golfing, hunting, and fishing.

In the last three years of his life, Robert made the move to Lake Wales, Florida from Arkansas, where he became a part of a new community. His presence was felt by many who came to know him and appreciate his warm demeanor.

Robert is survived by his daughter, Sandy Bufo; his son, Robert Perkins, and his wife, Katie; another son, also named Robert Perkins; grandchildren, Lexie and Addie; his sister, Rose Gunter, and her husband Johnny, of Babson Park; his brother, Charles Perkins, Sr., and his wife Joyce of Lake Wales; as well as his niece Diane Perkins and nephew Charles Perkins, Jr.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jean Perkins, and his parents, Stanley Perkins and Eura Perkins.

Robert Henry Perkins will be remembered for his service to his country, his love for his family, and his enjoyment of life. Services in his honor will take place at a later date in Kentucky, where his family will gather to celebrate his remarkable life and legacy. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.

Citizens and Police Community Relations Advisory Committee Invites Public to Sept. 22 Meeting

Maria Iannucci
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Citizens and Police Community Relations Advisory Committee Invites Public to Sept. 22 Meeting
Photo credit: City of Lake Wales

The Citizens and Police Community Relations Advisory Committee will host their next meeting on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 6pm. The meeting will be held in New Hope Baptist Church, located at 113 E. Central Ave., thanks to Police Chaplain Stephen Bolden.

These committee meetings are open to the public. The purpose is to promote a dialogue and create positive relationships between the community and the police department. Board members and members of police administration will be present.

In Loving Memory of James “Tommy” Thomas Anderson, 58

Maria Iannucci
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In Loving Memory of James “Tommy” Thomas Anderson, 58

James “Tommy” Thomas Anderson

James Thomas Anderson, 58

James Thomas Anderson, a cherished figure in the hearts of many, departed from this world on September 12, 2025, at his residence. Born on September 24, 1966, in Bartow, to Trenton and Linda Anderson, Tommy, as he was affectionately known, lived a life characterized by his unwavering dedication to family and community.

A self-employed carpenter, Tommy was known for his skilled craftsmanship. He loved his family and enjoyed quality time with his grandchildren. He was a member of Family Life Church and loved the Lord.

Tommy’s love for the great outdoors was evident in his passion for fishing and hunting, activities that brought him joy and serenity. He also relished moments spent watching NASCAR, which showcased not only his love for competition but a dedication to shared experiences with family and friends.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Heather Batson Anderson; the children he left behind, Mindy Weir and her husband Steven of Lake Wales, and Jaclyn King and her husband Travis of Charleston, South Carolina, Cody Crumbly and his wife Tasha of Lake Wales; mother, Linda Anderson of Lake Wales; brother Timothy Anderson of Lake Wales; and twelve grandchildren, each carrying a piece of his legacy.

A memorial service to honor Tommy’s life and contributions will be held on September 20, 2025, at Family Life Church, located at 139 Bulldog Way, Frostproof, Florida, beginning at 11:00 AM. In this gathering, family and friends will come together, united in remembrance of a man whose legacy of love and dedication continues to inspire those fortunate enough to have known him. Condolences can be sent to the family www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com. 

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of James “Tommy” Thomas Anderson, please visit our flower store.

In Loving Memory of Ted A. Smith, 51, of Babson Park

Maria Iannucci
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In Loving Memory of Ted A. Smith, 51, of Babson Park

Ted. A. Smith, 51

Ted A. Smith, a beloved chef and dynamic personality, passed away on September 11, 2025, at AdventHealth Lake Wales, leaving behind a legacy rich in flavor and laughter. Born on March 8, 1974, in Richmond, Virginia, Ted was a man who encapsulated the spirit of life with his professional skills and vibrant character.

For a decade, Ted served as the Chef and Manager of Crooked Bass in Lake Wales, where he was known not only for his culinary talents but also for his engaging conversations and the warm ambiance he created. He was truly a professional ass kicker in every aspect of his life—a captain in the kitchen and a conversationalist who brought people together.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Ted found joy in many hobbies. He was an avid fan of the Oakland Raiders and Star Wars. He often infused music into his life by singing or playing the violin. Ted’s family and friends will forever hold cherished memories of the camaraderie he inspired both in his kitchen and around the dinner table.

He is survived by his adoring wife, Brandy Kaveski; children, Christine Smith of Troy, Alabama, Zoie Smith of Babson Park, and Nicholas Smith of Babson Park; grandchildren, Juanita Holmes-Smith, Jonathan Young, Jr., and Rosalieah Young; sister, Heather Leftwich of Chesterfield, Virginia; and brother, John Burney of Sebastian. Though his parents, Theodore Alfred Smith and Doris Jean Smith, have preceded him in death, the values they instilled in him live on through his family and the countless lives he touched.

A celebration of life will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Christ’s Church on the Move (312 Buck Moore Road, Lake Wales, Florida 33898). Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Ted A. Smith, please visit our flower store.

Lake Wales Storage Zone Celebrates 25 Years of Meeting Customer Storage Needs

Staff Reporter
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Lake Wales Storage Zone Celebrates 25 Years of Meeting Customer Storage Needs
Natasha Cosgrove Owner of Storage Zone

by James Coulter

Whether you’re a downtown business owner seeking to store your excess inventory or a Warner University college student wanting to store your belongings, Storage Zone in Lake Wales has the solution to your storage needs.

For 25 years, Storage Zone has provided a diverse, affordable selection of units to meet the storage needs of any customer. They offer units of various sizes and features ranging from warehouse to office-sized, climate-controlled to non-climate-controlled, and even covered parking with electricity.

Originally a nurse from New York who moved to Lake Wales in 2002, Natasha Cosgrove started as a renter at the facility before the former owners offered her the opportunity to take over.

“The opportunity arose,” Cosgrove said. “The owners were leaving and looking for someone to take over. I thought it would be a great challenge. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise.”

Cosgrove owes her success over the past quarter-century to customer service. Her motto is that Storage Zone is where “strangers become like family.” Such quality customer service has allowed her business to thrive for as long as it has, and she hopes it will continue to thrive for many more years to come.

“I think that is what draws people to us,” she said. “They know we have affordable storage, a safe and secure facility, and the fact that strangers trust us to keep their belongings safe…I really believe that is what drives Storage Zone, it’s that people continually come back to us for helping them and being here.”

Storage Zone will be celebrating its 25th anniversary with an open house on Mon. Sep. 15. The facility is located at 1250 SR 60 West in Lake Wales.

Cosgrove recently appeared on the Chattin on the Ridge podcast to discuss her experience with Storage Zone. Listen to the full episode here: https://shows.acast.com/chattin-on-the-ridge/episodes/ep-67-storage-zone-lake-wales-wnatasha-cosgrove

Frostproof Woman Arrested After Two Dogs Die From Heatstroke and Neglect

carl
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Frostproof Woman Arrested After Two Dogs Die From Heatstroke and Neglect

Polk County Sheriff’s Office Press Release

On June 17, 2025, Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to an anonymous complaint regarding two deceased dogs in the backyard of a residence on West 6th Street in Frostproof. Upon arrival, deputies made contact with 20-year-old Nashali Santiago, who stated she was caring for the dogs while her brother is deployed overseas. 

While searching the back yard of the residence, deputies discovered two deceased German Shepherds—identified by Santiago as “Ajax,” a 3-year-old male, and “Sugar,” a 2-year-old female – inside a makeshift pen with no roof or shade. The outdoor temperature at the time was 93 degrees Fahrenheit. The pen contained no food or water bowls, and both dogs appeared to be in the early stages of decomposition.

Santiago told deputies she had last seen the dogs the previous night and claimed they were fine. She stated she typically fed and watered them once daily in the evening.

The dogs were sent to the University of Florida Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, where Dr. Adam Stern, a Board-Certified Veterinary Pathologist and Founding Fellow in Veterinary Forensic Pathology, conducted forensic necropsies. The results confirmed both dogs died from heatstroke and dehydration.

Ajax was found to be malnourished and had not eaten recently. His poor body condition was attributed to inadequate feeding, not illness. Sugar was in normal body condition but had also not eaten recently. No signs of disease or injury were found.

Santiago was arrested and charged with two counts of felony animal cruelty (F3).

“This is a heartbreaking case of neglect. If you take responsibility for an animal, you are obligated to care for it properly. These dogs suffered and died needlessly, and now the woman responsible for their deaths is facing serious felony charges.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

City of Lake Wales May Consider Changing Election Dates from April to November

Maria Iannucci
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City of Lake Wales May Consider Changing Election Dates from April to November

by James Coulter

 

Lake Wales residents may start voting in city elections in November rather than April if city commissioners consider a recommendation to change their election dates.

During their workshop on Wed., Sept. 10, 2025, Lake Wales city commissioners were given a presentation by the Supervisor of Elections, who recommended Lake Wales host their city elections in November.

“This is not mandatory,” said Melony Bell, Supervisor of Elections. “I am not here to tell you that you have to change your elections…I am here to offer suggestions.”

Bell recommended that city elections be held during odd years in November. She claimed the change could increase voter turnout.

“We want better voter turnout because we have veterans that served in war for us to have that right…to stand here in the great United States of America [where] we are able to cast a vote and let our opinion be known,” Bell said.

Under these proposed changes, a single election cycle would save Polk County an estimated $38,000 and Lake Wales an estimated $12,179.

“The benefits would include a reduction in costs and staff time by having an election every two years instead of every year,” explained City Clerk Jennifer Nanek in the workshop minutes. “In 2025, it cost approximately $10,000 to have an election. In the future, this cost may include run-off elections.”

However, one potential downside, as Bell explained, would be that the change to the new voting format could “cause confusion among Lake Wales voters.”

Deputy Mayor Robin asked about the potential legal ramifications of changing the term limits for city commissioners. Nanek explained that “if the terms were changed from three to four years, the commissioners’ terms would need to be staggered.”

These recommended changes would require a charter amendment to change terms from 3 years to 2 or 4 years. This amendment would require voter approval and would be placed on the ballot for Apr. 7, 2026.

Sheriff Judd Confirms Drowning On Lake Clinch In Frostproof

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Sheriff Judd Confirms Drowning On Lake Clinch In Frostproof

Polk Sheriff Grady Judd

Frostproof, Fla. – A tragic incident occurred Saturday afternoon on Lake Clinch in Frostproof when an adult male drowned.

The emergency call came in at approximately 2:28 p.m. to Clinch Lake Boulevard South and 7th Street West. Frostproof Fire Department, Polk County Fire Rescue, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission responded to the scene.

Sheriff Grady Judd of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office was present as deputies and first responders worked the incident. Despite the efforts of multiple agencies, the victim, an adult male, was pronounced deceased.

Sheriff Judd updated the media and advised the victim’s name is Pierre Richard Flourde, 52, of Frostproof. He apparently attempted to get his boat that drifted off from the shoreline and he went under. A friend tried to save him in vain.

The investigation remains ongoing, and no further details have been released at this time.

CDC Scientists Who Has Ties To Lake Wales Alleged Provocative Posts About Death Of Charlie Kirk
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